• A Hobby Not a Business
  The breeding of Keeshonden is a hobby for quality breeders. We participate in many dog related activities like dog clubs, shows, obedience and agility trials and educational events. Most of us also have jobs, families, and yes, other interests. There is no staff and expenses mount more quickly than puppy income. When you are looking for a puppy don’t forget what time zone you are in and time your call not to interrupt dinner or sleep. Have patience when your email or voicemail is not answered as quickly as you want. Send another message if you are not sure the first one arrived. If you are asked to call at another time understand that breeders have to juggle things just like you do. Check the breeders list for preferred contact methods and you will have a more productive experience.
  
  Sites like Facebook and Yahoo often have groups for specific breeds. This is a great way to meet other people who own the breed and can recommend a reputable breeder that they have had a great experience with. 
   

• Ethics
  Every member of the Keeshond Club of America (KCA), is bound by the club’s Code of Ethics. You should expect that they live up to this code, without any excuses. You should expect that financial matters are handled carefully, and that terms of deposits and payments are clear. You should expect that any referral they give you to another breeder is to another reputable breeder.
   

• Professionalism
  This is a hobby however, breeders do take their work with dogs seriously and you should expect professionalism on their part. Here are some expectations that you should have:
   

  • Expect to be interviewed
    Placing a puppy is making a match. A breeder wants to match your interests, expectations and capabilities to both the breed characteristics and their individual puppy’s needs. The best way for them to do this is by interview. Everyone does this differently. Some use a questionnaire, some use the phone and/or email, others prefer in person meetings, most use a combination of these.
     

  • Expect a contract
    Every reputable Keeshond breeder has some form of written agreement with their buyers. You should make sure you understand the contract. Discuss any questions you have with the breeder and be sure it contains everything that you have been promised. The contract should protect your interests as well as those of the Breeder. Contracts regarding dogs have been enforced in court so takes your seriously. Contracts of reputable breeds will have a clause that says if you can no longer keep your dog the breeder should be notified immediately.
     

  • Expect to receive paperwork
    The KCA Code of Ethics lists what breeders must provide. Many breeders provide sheets with additional information on grooming, training, feeding and care. Read these items carefully it is important information.
     

  • Expect a wait
    Hobby breeders are not breeding every other week. They usually have one to two litters per year. Female dogs only come into season every six months. You may be asked to call back in a few months or you may be put on a waiting list. When the litter arrives you may find that there are a limited number of puppies available for placement, so your first choice of gender may not be possible. If you are flexible your chances of getting a puppy will increase. You may luck out and happen upon an available puppy but it is not unusual to wait 6 months to a year for a puppy.
     

  • Expect courtesy and respect
    If you have done your homework and you take your search seriously, you should be met with courtesy and respect by the breeders you contact.
     

• KNOWLEDGE
  Your individual research in the library and on the internet, along with your conversations with other Keeshond breeders has provided you with a lot of information about the breed. We appreciate and applaud you for putting in this effort. Knowledgeable and dedicated owners go to the top of the list with breeders. They are looking for people who want to know more about the breed and are ready to learn. The research you have done is only the first step; you should expect to learn a LOT from your breeder. Even the newest breeder has seen more Keeshonden than a long time single dog owner, veterinarian, or the author of a piece on how to select a breed. A reputable breeder will have a large national and perhaps international network of other breeders to tap into for insights and information. Don’t be surprised if you breeder’s answers contradict some of what you have heard or read. Most importantly, plan on asking a lot of questions and you should expect your breeder to answer them.
   

• SUPPORT
  Breeders are concerned about their puppies for their entire lives. They are prepared to be a resource for you long after you take your puppy home. They want to hear all the good things, and see your pictures, but they really want to hear problems. Especially in regard to behavior and health, so they can help you. This may mean that some breeders will only place a puppy close to home. As one breeder put it, “Buying a puppy from me has both the advantages and disadvantages of a long, long friendship.”

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In summary, every breeder has different ways of handling their breeding and puppy placement. Provided they meet the KCA Code of Ethics, the details of contracts, interviewing styles, sales arrangements, breeding, care, and socialization will vary from breeder to breeder. So, just like you and your puppy should be a good match – you and your breeder should be one too!